Pato sends Corinthians to Paulista final

Sao Paulo, May 6 (IANS)

Alexandre Pato converted a decisive spot-kick as Corinthians defeated Sao Paulo 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout to advance to the final of the Campeonato Paulista.

Corinthians goalkeeper Cassio saved Luis Fabiano’s final attempt for Sao Paulo Sunday while Paulo Henrique Ganso struck his shot over the crossbar. Alessandro was the only Corinthians player to miss from the spot, reports Xinhua.

Pato’s spot-kick was initially saved by Rogerio Ceni but referee Antonio Rogerio Batista do Prado gave the former AC Milan striker a second chance after the goalkeeper was ruled to have moved too far off his line.

The result means Corinthians will now meet Santos in next Sunday’s final, Pato’s first chance at silverware since his 15-million euro move from AC Milan in Janeiro.

“I want to be a part of Corinthians’ history. I came here to win titles. Now we will confront Santos and I’m going to give all I’ve got to helping the team,” Pato said.